If your venue has a sound limiter, you might be worried it will spoil the party. It doesn’t have to. Here’s what a sound limiter is, why venues use them and how a good wedding DJ works with one so your dance floor stays full.
What is a sound limiter?
A sound limiter is a device that measures how loud the music in a room is. If the volume goes over a level set by the venue, it gives a warning, usually a light, and if the level stays too high it can cut the power to the sockets the DJ or band is using.
Most limiters reset after a short time, but a power cut in the middle of a packed dance floor is not the moment you want. That’s why it matters that your DJ knows about the limiter before the day.
Why venues have them
- Neighbours. Venues near homes often need to keep noise down to protect their neighbours.
- Licence conditions. Some venues have noise conditions on their licence.
- Historic buildings. Older venues sometimes have rules to protect the building.
How a good DJ works with a limiter
- Find out early. We ask every venue about limiters before the day, including where the sensor is and what level it’s set to.
- Spread the sound. Using more speakers at a lower level fills the room evenly without any one spot being too loud.
- Position speakers carefully. Keeping speakers away from and pointed away from the sensor helps avoid false triggers.
- Manage the bass. Low frequencies are often what push a limiter over. We tune our system to keep the energy without the extra volume.
- Watch the light. Our team keeps an eye on the limiter all night so there are no surprises.
Remember that loud guests, cheering and singalongs also count towards the level. A good DJ allows for that.
What to ask your venue
- Do you have a sound limiter, and where is the sensor?
- What level is it set to, and what happens if it’s exceeded?
- Are there any finish times or noise rules for outdoor areas?
- Can our DJ speak to your team before the wedding?
Is your venue on a limiter?
Tell us your date and venue and we’ll check we’re free. We’ll speak to your venue about any sound limits before the day, so you don’t have to.
Check your dateSound limiter FAQs
Will a sound limiter ruin our party?
Not with the right setup. A good DJ positions and tunes their speakers to get the best sound within the limit, so the dance floor still feels full of energy.
How do we find out if our venue has a sound limiter?
Ask your venue directly, or let your DJ ask. We speak to every venue before the day and check for limiters as standard.
Does a sound limiter affect live bands?
Yes. Limiters affect any amplified music, and live drums can be loud on their own, so bands often find limiters harder to work with than DJs.